John Bercow's expenses

The new Speaker came under fire during the release of MPs' expenses claims. John Bercow repaid more than £6,500 to HM Revenue & Customs after confirming that he had not paid capital gains tax when he sold two properties in 2003.

He also consistently made claims in round numbers. He generally claimed £100 a month for food, £100 for utilities, £100 for council tax/rates, £50 for telephone costs, £50 for cleaning and £350 for service/maintenance.

However, in March 2006 his claims rose to the maximum £400 for food. His utility bill was £110.91, the council tax bill was £90 and the phone bill was £150.